Crystal Palace have blocked a third month on loan with the Bluebirds for Gray, who returned to training with the London club today.

City refused to accept Palace's 'pay up or else' stance and manager Lennie Lawrence said: "We won't be pressurised into anything."

Palace want &#xA3;500,000 now for Gray, but City believe that is too much for a player out of contract at the end of the season.

Lawrence, though, has not ruled out buying Gray during or after the January transfer window and the London-born winger said today: "I hope Cardiff City don't forget me - I would certainly be interested."

Gray completed his loan spell in the 3-2 win against Stoke City.

"I've enjoyed my time with Cardiff and I'm disappointed to be going," said Gray, who has been told by Palace owner Simon Jordan he will never kick a ball for the club again.

"I have no idea what to expect at Palace. I'll report for training and go from there."

The Palace manager has changed since Gray joined Cardiff City, Welsh international Kit Symons taking over after Steve Kember was sacked.

Gray said: "It took me a while to settle into a new city, but playing regular first team football helped.

"I went to Leeds and Charlton last season before I joined Cardiff. There's a real buzz about the place and I have enjoyed myself.

"I can't say where my future lies. Crystal Palace hold my registration, but I am out of contract at the end of the season. A permanent move to a club is my long-term aim and I would certainly be interested in playing for Cardiff City."